How to Prevent Getting the Flu

How to Prevent Getting the Flu

The beautiful New England falls brings along the dreaded flu season, a time of year where everyone is coughing, sneezing, and looking downright miserable. Flu season is here, and you’re not exempt from getting sick if you’re not careful. Even the healthiest of us can catch the flu, especially spending a lot of time indoors around others who may be sick. Want to avoid catching the flu? There are a few actions you can take to ensure you have a healthy flu season!

Take time to get the flu vaccine

The Centers for Disease and Control Prevention recommends getting the flu shot as the first and most important step in protecting yourself against the flu. While every flu season is different from the next, a flu shot can protect you against the most common strain. The flu vaccination can also reduce flu-related illnesses, doctor’s visits, missed school and workdays, and prevent flu-related hospitalization.

Everyone is encouraged to get an annual flu shot, especially children six months of age and older, senior/elderly persons, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart conditions.

Take preventative actions to stop the spread of germs

Aside from getting a flu shot, you can also protect yourself against the flu by avoiding close contact with sick people, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands often with soap and running water, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. You should also take the time to regularly sanitize hard surfaces and objects in your home and workplace.

Live a healthy lifestyle

Keeping your body healthy and establishing a strong immune system is one of the most important things you can do this cold and flu season. Without your body being at its best, it’ll be hard to fight off colds and the flu when it strikes you. Practice living a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy, exercising a few times a week, and getting a full night’s rest to keep your immune system strong enough to keep you free of any illness.